From his childhood in the American West to his efforts to teach the world about the Lakota people's religion and culture, and to help preserve the Native American way of life, Black Elk (1863–1950) proclaimed that each of us has the power to make the world a better place. This entertaining biography for readers 8 to 11, illustrated in color with photos and drawings throughout, includes activities inspired by Black Elk's own words, as well as his values and beliefs. It also describes his friendship with his biographer John Neihardt, who recorded Black Elk's words.

"Black Elk, a member of the Lakota Sioux, had a dream as a boy that showed the world as a sacred hoop, sheltering all living things. The dream also revealed his purpose in life: to protect his people and to spread the message that people should share love and respect with all living things. This compact book chronicles Black Elk's life, which was filled with both peace and war, including fighting with Crazy Horse at Little Bighorn. There is also much about John Neihardt, the author who sought out Black Elk and gathered his stories in Black Elk Speaks."—Booklist